STANEK A STEADY INFLUENCE
Gael senior a mainstay in the trenches as college football awaits
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Just about two years ago, St. Edmond head football coach Matt Dillon sat with Brock Stanek and his parents and told them something.
"He said I was capable of playing college football," Stanek remembered. "He got me started in recruiting.
"It's been a long time coming since then."
Stanek, a senior for the Gaels, recently committed to the University of St. Thomas. The Minnesota-based school will be the first private Div. I collegiate athletics program in the state and just the second Div. I program.
"I'm excited to keep developing myself and really show how I play at that level and find my highest potential," Stanek said. "I also can't wait to meet my teammates and form life-long bonds with them, like I have my teammates here at St. Edmond."
The Tommies dominated the Div. III level for several years and are now set to compete in the Pioneer Football League of Div. I FCS beginning in 2021.
"UST really checked all my boxes," said Stanek, who had offers from several other schools as well. "I want to be an engineer and they offer multiple majors.
"They also play outstanding football, and since they are now Div. I, I really liked the appeal of being part of a team that builds a program like that.
"Their coaching staff is great and I was wanted there. In the end, it was the best choice for me."
Coaches have played a key role in the development of Stanek both on and off the field.
"Without Coach Dillon, I wouldn't be here," Stanek said. "He is the best coach I could ever ask for and has been supportive of all I've done. He has also taught me so many invaluable skills about life."
Stanek finished his senior season with 30.5 tackles including 17 solo stops, four for loss and two sacks. He was also a key member of the offensive line that recorded over 1,800 yards passing, almost 1,500 yards rushing and 42 offensive touchdowns.
St. Edmond's five wins this past fall were the most since the 2015 season.
As a junior, Stanek recorded 33 tackles including 24 solo stops, seven for loss and a pair of sacks.
"Without a doubt, I will miss playing with all the guys," Stanek said. "This year, we came into it knowing it was our last and despite COVID, we kept working and never lost faith. I can't thank my teammates enough for an outstanding season where I looked forward to every Friday to have fun with them and play football at a high level.
"I will also miss playing for and being coached by Coach Dillon, Coach Johnson and all the members of the coaching staff as they taught me so much and kept the sport fun for us."
Along with football, Stanek has also been involved in basketball, track, Chamber Choir and student council at St. Edmond.
TIMEOUT WITH BROCK STANEK
Vacation destination: Mexico.
People I would like to have dinner with: The boys, Adam Thielen, Scott Wiemers and Brian McClain.
My sports role models:
Everson Griffin and Quenton Nelson.
My everyday role models: my parents and Coach Dillon.
I can't go a day without: a protein shake.
Nickname: B or Big B.
Most heated rivalry:
Manson Northwest Webster.
Favorite road trip: Twin Lakes or Minneapolis.
What are you listening to right now? Brad Paisley and Post Malone.
Favorites…
Team: Iowa State Cyclones.
Class: physics.
Movie: Interstellar and Good Will Hunting.
Book: 1984 by George Orwell.
Phone app: Snapchat.